By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
France booked their place in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a commanding 2-0 victory over Morocco in Thursday’s quarter-final, ending the Atlas Lions’ impressive campaign and moving one step closer to another world title.
The encounter, played before a packed crowd at Boston Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, was fiercely contested in the opening half, with Morocco frustrating the French attack through disciplined defending and determined midfield play.
France had an opportunity to seize the initiative before the interval when they were awarded a penalty, but captain Kylian Mbappé failed to convert, leaving the scoreline goalless at half-time and giving Morocco renewed belief.
However, Didier Deschamps’ side returned from the break with greater urgency and finally broke the deadlock in the 60th minute. Mbappé made amends for his earlier miss by finding the back of the net with a composed finish, sending the French supporters into celebration.
Just six minutes later, France doubled their advantage through Ousmane Dembélé, whose clinical strike put the European giants firmly in control of the contest and left Morocco with a mountain to climb.
The Atlas Lions responded with renewed attacking intent, pressing high in search of a route back into the game, but France’s experienced defence remained resolute, denying Morocco any clear opportunity to reduce the deficit.
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The Merit Newspaper reports that despite the defeat, Morocco once again demonstrated the resilience, organisation and fighting spirit that have made them one of the standout teams of the tournament. Their memorable World Cup journey included victories over the Netherlands, Canada and other strong opponents, further underlining the nation’s growing reputation on the global football stage.
For France, the victory reinforces their credentials as one of the favourites to lift the trophy. Having negotiated another difficult knockout fixture, Les Bleus now advance to the semi-finals, where they will face the winner of the quarter-final between Spain and Belgium.
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With a place in the World Cup final now within touching distance, France will be eager to maintain their impressive momentum as they continue their pursuit of football’s most coveted prize.
